TRENTON, N.J. — Governor Phil Murphy on Tuesday signed bipartisan legislation that expands academic flexibility for dependents of military service members, allowing them to choose how to complete coursework when unexpected service obligations interrupt their education.
The measure, sponsored by Senator Parker Space (R-24), gives military dependents the same academic grade options previously available only to service members.
“New Jersey is home to thousands of military families who are subject to unplanned obligations that can uproot their lives,” Space said. “Prior to this bill becoming law, only service members were granted the ability to decide the outcome of their grade if they were unable to finish a course. Now, with the governor’s signature, we’re extending that same courtesy to their dependents to ensure they receive the flexibility and support they deserve.”
Under the new law, students who complete at least 55 percent of a course can elect to receive a letter grade, a pass/fail grade, a grade of incomplete, or a course withdrawal. If less than 55 percent of the course has been completed, students may request an incomplete grade—subject to faculty approval—or withdraw.
